Primolut N is a treatment for heavy and painful periods which contains a synthetic hormone known as norethisterone. This synthetic progestin maintains the progesterone levels in the body.
The levels of progesterone fluctuate during the monthly cycle. These fluctuations impact the lining of the womb, called the endometrium. High levels of progesterone, which occurs after ovulation, sustain the endometrium, preparing the womb for a pregnancy to occur. When a pregnancy does not occur, the level of progesterone falls the endometrium is shed through a period.
In order to help shed the lining from the uterus, the surrounding muscles contract. These contractions decrease blood flow and oxygen to the surrounding tissues, triggering the body to release a pain-causing chemical called prostaglandins.
Norethisterone sustains the amount of progesterone in the body and tricks the body into thinking it is pregnant, therefore a period bleed does not need to occur. As a result, the contractions which aid in the shedding process do not occur. Norethisterone regulates periods, making them light and more regular and delays periods.
A normal period should occur up to 3 days after completing or stopping the course of treatment. If you do not experience a period after 3 days of stopping Primolut N, speak to your doctor. You may need to take a pregnancy test.
Primolut N is not a form of hormonal contraception and should not be used if you are already taking a combined contraceptive pill. It may be safe to take Primolut N if you are taking a single hormonal contraceptive, also known as a “mini pill”. Speak to your doctor to ensure the treatment is right for you before you buy Primolut N online.